This plant is often considered the Chinese counterpart to the Japanese sansho tree (Zanthoxylum piperatum). While similar in many ways, Szechuan pepper has slightly milder berries, with less of the distinctive lingering citrus spice associated with sansho. However, both the leaves and berries still deliver a bold combination of citrus, herbal notes and peppery heat that tingles pleasantly on the palate.
Szechuan pepper trees are deciduous, losing their leaves in November and producing fresh growth again in March.
Unlike sansho, the Szechuan pepper tree is monoecious, meaning a single plant can produce fruit. However, yields are often improved with cross-pollination, which is why we offer trees in groups of three for best results.
Growing information
Szechuan pepper trees are easy to grow and adaptable.
- Best grown in full sun
- Hardy to around –15°C
- Grow in most soils provided drainage is good
- Slow growing
They naturally form a bushy shrub, but can be pruned to a single stem to create a small tree. In around ten years they typically reach 3m tall and 2m wide.
They also grow well in containers and can even be trained as bonsai. When growing in pots, use a citrus compost and feed with a citrus fertiliser, following the product instructions. Water moderately and allow the compost to almost dry out between watering.
Harvesting
The peppercorns are ready to harvest when the red husks split open to reveal the black seed. Pick the whole clusters and dry them before use. The seeds themselves contain little flavour, so they can be removed if preferred.
Any husks that do not open naturally can still be harvested and dried. For the best flavour, grind using a pepper mill or pestle and mortar, and store the dried husks whole in an airtight container (they also freeze well).
How To Use
Use Szechuan pepper much like black pepper, but expect a distinctive citrus aroma and gentle mouth-tingling heat. It is a classic in Chinese cooking and works beautifully in curries, stews, noodles, soups, tofu dishes, fish and chicken.
Trees supplied in a 7cm pot.
Szechuan Pepper Tree Growing Guide
